Morning all,
Having bothered you good lot so often, I really, really need to start having a go and learning a bit more about guitar maintenance and repair (I'm sure I've said this before but...this time...). I've just been playing around with a new guitar and through some minor truss rod and bridge adjustments, I've managed to get the action to a much more pleasing level. But it hasn't been done as 'properly' as it probably should have, with correct measuring tools, etc.
To get set up in basic tech, whether it's re-soldering a loose wire, adjusting action, etc. what basic tools do you consider essentials? Is there such a thing as a good basic kit for some of these jobs, for example:
Also, and probably more importantly, is there a book you would recommend for repair techniques?
Thanks!
Comments
There is a section covering tools.
My band, Red For Dissent
My band, Red For Dissent
If you just want to set up your guitar, the 'How to..' book is probably all you need and is easier to digest.
The 'Guitar Player Repair Guide' covers basically every aspect of repairs from the simple to the expert. Most people won't ever try to attempt half of what it covers but it is good to have the knowledge (if not the practical experience). However, the book was compiled from articles in Guitar Player over the years. It's not the most elegantly laid out book and subjects are a little fragmented.It really is 'the bible', though.
Any advice on gauges, etc.? Amazon recommendations are useful.
My band, Red For Dissent
Many guitars have a re-sale value. Some you'll never want to sell.
Stockist of: Earvana & Graphtech nuts, Faber Tonepros & Gotoh hardware, Fatcat bridges. Highwood Saddles.
Pickups from BKP, Oil City & Monty's pickups.
Expert guitar repairs and upgrades - fretwork our speciality! www.felineguitars.com. Facebook too!
Both Dan Erlewine books are good - different approaches to telling you what you need to know. Get both!
His short StewMac videos on Youtube are also excellent.
Any thoughts on feeler gauges/tools?
My band, Red For Dissent
Probably order that, for the read if nothing else.
My band, Red For Dissent
They usually range from 25 to about 1.5 which covers everything you need.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B009IS3TUI/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1432827757&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SY200_QL40&keywords=light+green+metal+gauges&dpPl=1&dpID=41mWz4SYMAL&ref=plSrch
My band, Red For Dissent
Best get the imperial sizes IMO as most books quote those sizes being American.